10 Affordable Online Master's in Exercise Science Programs 2025

Exercise science, sometimes called kinesiology or exercise physiology, is the field of study of human movement, especially as it relates to fitness. Earning a master's in exercise science can lead to various careers related to fitness, sports medicine, and more.

Earning an exercise science master's degree doesn't require attending an expensive on-campus program. Learn about these schools that offer affordable exercise science programs online.

What Is an Online Master's in Exercise Science?

A master's in exercise science is a degree that deeply explores human movement. This degree is generally offered as a Master of Science in exercise science (MS in exercise science), and coursework commonly includes various aspects of physical activity, such as sports psychology, strength and conditioning, and physical therapy.

Because the field of exercise science is diverse, some schools have different names for their exercise science degrees. Some alternate degree names include master's in exercise physiology, sports performance, and athletic performance.

How Much Does an Online Master's in Exercise Science Cost?

The average cost of a master's in exercise science online degree program is around $15,000 to $20,000. Costs vary at different schools based on a few main factors, including the total number of required credits, enrollment status (full-time vs. part-time), and how much financial aid you qualify for. Students usually find the most affordable degrees at public, in-state, nonprofit universities.

Cheapest Online Master's in Exercise Science and Physiology Programs

Learn more about these affordable online graduate programs in exercise science. Some of these schools have different names for the program, but they will qualify you for the same career paths in health sciences and wellness.

1. The University of North Georgia

Graduate students at the University of North Georgia (UNG) can complete an MS in kinesiology. Students can choose concentrations in either exercise science or physical education. This program has 30 total credit hours, and students can begin their education in any of the three semesters, provided they meet the application deadline.

• Estimated tuition cost: $311 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students at UNG can submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for federal aid, such as grants and scholarships, as well as state-based aid.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. The University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands, based in Kentucky, has an MS in health and human performance offered remotely. Over 30 core and elective credit hours, students learn about health promotion, sports medicine, and research methods.

• Estimated tuition cost: $355 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students at the University of the Cumberlands can qualify for grants, loans, and federal work-study programs.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri's (UCM) MS in kinesiology focuses on the skills needed to work as strength and conditioning coaches and personal trainers. This degree can be completed fully online or through a hybrid format for learners looking to utilize UCM's state-of-the-art facilities.

Students can also join the UCM Kinesiology Club for networking opportunities with alumni and classmates.

• Estimated tuition cost: $445 per credit hour
• Financial aid: UCM students can use grants, scholarships, and apply for work-study programs after submitting their FAFSA.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. American Public University

The MS in sports and health science from the American Public University (APU) is a good option for students looking to learn about exercise science. This degree combines public health and physical wellness lessons to prepare students for their careers.

In addition to physical aspects of exercise, this degree analyzes psychological factors of health, including stress.

• Estimated tuition cost: $455 per credit hour
• Financial aid: APU accepts all federal aid and offers tuition discounts and additional aid to service members and government employees.
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Concordia University St. Paul

Concordia University St. Paul (CSP) is located in Minnesota, but its MS in exercise science is available from anywhere with the CSP Global initiative. This fully online degree includes 33 credit hours and takes students around two years to complete. There is also a study abroad option for students pursuing hands-on experience.

• Estimated tuition cost: $475 per credit hour
• Financial aid: CSP has multiple discounts for students, including service members. Students can also apply for FAFSA results, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
• Accreditation: HLC

6. University of Louisiana Monroe

There is an MS in exercise science available through the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) with a sports management concentration. This degree is specifically designed for sports management, but it can apply to other exercise science-related careers. Online courses are delivered in eight-week and full-semester lengths.

• Estimated tuition cost: $500 per credit hour
• Financial aid: ULM
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. University of Florida

The University of Florida's online MS in applied physiology and kinesiology is one of the top-ranking programs in the nation. Coursework covers biomechanics, injury prevention, and motor control and learning. There are also five specializations that focus on different aspects of human performance and how they relate to emerging fields, including AI and space operations.

• Estimated tuition cost: $550 per credit hour
• Financial aid: The University of Florida awards $172,000 per school year to students in the College of Health & Human Performance. Students can also use FAFSA-based aid.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. Liberty University

Liberty University students can earn an MS in exercise science and wellness without ever stepping on campus. This program is offered fully online through accelerated eight-week courses. Students can also transfer up to 50% of their required credits. Students can choose between two different concentrations: Fitness and Performance or Nutrition and Wellness.

• Estimated tuition cost: $612 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Liberty university accepts FAFSA. There are also tuition discounts for military personnel and first responders, as well as institutional scholarships.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. The University of the Southwest

The University of the Southwest offers the same high-quality MS in kinesiology online as it does from its New Mexico campus. This degree prepares students for career opportunities as exercise physiologists, sports historians, and sports nutrition experts.

• Estimated tuition cost: $675 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students must have a current FAFSA to be eligible for grants, scholarships, and student employment opportunities.
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Calvin University

The MS in Exercise Science from Calvin University can be completed fully online through accelerated eight-week-long courses. Students can choose from Health and Exercise Rehabilitation or Performance and Sport Science concentrations. This 30-credit-hour program can be completed in 12 to 25 months, depending on full- or part-time enrollment status.

• Estimated tuition cost: $693 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Calvin University accepts FAFSA-based financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant.
• Accreditation: HLC

How We Rank Schools

We used three strict criteria when evaluating these schools to ensure that our affordable recommendations still provide high-quality education.

• Accreditation: Every school has regional accreditation to ensure your degree will meet high national education standards.
• Affordability: Every program on this list was chosen because its cost per credit hour was below $1000.
• Program reputation: In addition to accreditation, these programs were chosen for recognition from third-party groups, such as U.S. News & World Report.

What To Expect From an Online Exercise Science Master's Program

Online exercise science and exercise physiology master's programs generally last about two years and include 30 credits. Coursework focuses on different aspects of healthcare and physical activity, with some schools offering different specializations. Specializations for exercise science degrees generally reflect career paths within the field, such as education, physical therapy, and personal training.

FAQs About Low-Cost Online Exercise Science and Physiology Master's Degrees

Students with questions about a master's in exercise physiology online program should have them answered before applying. Here are some answers to the most common questions exercise science students have.

Is an Online Master's in Exercise Science Worth It?

An accredited online Master's in exercise science can be worth it for students looking to advance their careers in a fitness or exercise capacity. A master's program provides deeper training, especially in more specialized roles. Master's degree holders often receive higher pay than their coworkers who only have bachelor's degrees.

What Can You Do With a Master's in Exercise Science Degree?

Some of the top master's in exercise science jobs available include working in physical therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, and exercise education. Students can also use these degrees to prepare for PhD programs for even further career advancement.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Master's in Exercise Science Online?

Earning a master's in exercise science takes around 24 months, on average. Some programs that use accelerated and self-paced coursework can take as little as a year, while some learners might take closer to 36 months.

What Is the Highest Paying Job in Exercise Science?

The highest paying exercise science career is a sports facility manager with a median pay of $69,000, according to some estimates. This role combines knowledge of human anatomy and physical activity, as well as organizational leadership and other unique skills.

Discover Online Exercise Science Degrees

Learn more about these online exercise science degree programs and more with our articles and school profiles. Find the best schools for your goals and learn how you can start your application process today.